Santander Customers Can Now Trade Bitcoin, Ethereum, and More

September 17, 2025 admin Technology 0
santander bank alongside the German- and the Spanish flag

What’s Happening

Banco Santander, the biggest bank in Spain and one of the major banks in Europe, has started allowing retail customers to trade cryptocurrencies through its digital banking arm, Openbank, beginning in Germany. The plan is to extend the service soon to Spain and then across the European Union.

Which Cryptocurrencies Are Available

Initially, customers in Germany can buy, sell and hold a select group of cryptos via the Openbank app. The first batch includes:

Openbank plans to add more digital assets later.

Why This Matters

  1. Crypto + Traditional Investments in One Place
    Users can now trade cryptocurrencies alongside stocks, ETFs, investment funds, etc., all inside the Openbank platform, no need to use a separate crypto exchange.

  2. Regulated Banking Entry into Crypto
    Santander is among the early major banks in Europe to provide regulated, retail-crypto services. This gives users a more trusted way to access crypto compared to unregulated platforms.

  3. Influence of EU Regulations (MiCA)
    The European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) legislation is helping make this kind of move possible. It provides a framework so that banks can offer crypto services under clear, regulated conditions.

Where & When the Roll-Out Will Happen

  • Germany: Already live via Openbank.

  • Spain: Expected by end of September.

  • EU-wide: Santander plans a broader rollout across EU countries later this year.

Openbank serves over 2 million clients in Spain, Germany, Portugal, the Netherlands, the U.S., and Mexico. This gives them a strong base to scale from.

What Beginner Investors Should Know

If you’re new to crypto or thinking of using Santander/Openbank for it, here are some points to keep in mind:

  • Watch fees and spreads: Even if the platform is “trusted,” trading crypto often comes with fees (transaction, custody, etc.). Compare them to specialized crypto exchanges.

  • Check security and regulation: Because this new service is provided by a bank and under EU law, there may be stronger protections than on some crypto-only platforms.

  • Start small: If you’re experimenting, it’s wise to try with a small amount first. Crypto can be volatile.

  • Diversify: Don’t put all your investment money into crypto. It’s smart to balance with other assets like stocks or funds.

  • Stay updated on regulations: Crypto rules are changing. MiCA is new, and local laws in each country might add extra steps or requirements.

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